Many readers were most concerned with his exposure of health violations and unsanitary practices in the American meatpacking industry during the early 20th century, based on an investigation he did for a socialist newspaper.

When Sheikh Nimr, who holds the rank of ayatollah, went on trial in
March 2013 prosecutors called for his execution by "crucifixion", a
punishment which in Saudi Arabia involves beheading followed by public
display of the decapitated body.